Beyond the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge: Business Charity Ideas

 

by Shannon F.

Whether you gleefully participated in the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge or you thought it was a waste of clean water, this recent viral fundraiser prompted many individuals and organizations to reexamine what it means to make a difference. Spreading awareness and raising money can be fun and a little silly. It can seem frivolous but still have amazing results. And the best part is, anyone can get involved, even those who think they don’t have much to give.

When Wendover/InsightPRM gathered on the lawn to watch VP of Sales Frank Craig and Territory Manager Joseph Catoe get soaked for a good cause, it certainly didn’t feel like an ordinary day at the office. Everyone returned to their desks with a renewed sense of purpose, because we had taken a stand as a team. It didn’t matter that our effort was a drop in the bucket.

In the spirit of the Ice Bucket Challenge, here are some ideas to get your team working together for a good cause.

Hold a sales competition for charity: whichever sales rep reaches goal first or has the best numbers on the board at the end of the week receives a donation to his or her favorite charity. Or, have the team pick a charity and work together to reach goal.

Walk or run for charity: Sure, it’s an old standby, but until you’ve done it, you won’t know the feeling of getting your adrenaline pumping for a cause. Unique events like Relay for Life or The Heroes Mud Run will be talked about forever. Make matching team shirts, and don’t forget to celebrate afterwards!

CEO dunk tank or pie-in-the-face: Who wouldn’t raise money for the chance to see the boss looking a little ridiculous? Set a company-wide fundraising goal with a one-of-a-kind reward.

Have a unique auction: Encourage employees to donate something personal, whether it’s a homemade dinner, a weekend at the family cabin, or a special talent – like tennis coaching or singing lessons. Have everyone bid on these items in a silent auction. It’s a fun and low-cost way to raise money, gain everyone’s participation, and encourage team members to learn more about each other.

Volunteer together: Spend the day together cleaning up a local park or volunteering at the SPCA. Your team members will enjoy bonding over a great cause and spending a few hours outside the office.

Campaign for a cause close to home: Causes near and far need your help, but why not pick an individual or group in your community to benefit from your fundraiser? Around the holidays, “adopting” a family is a great way to make a big difference on a micro-level.

There are plenty of ways to keep the spirit of making a difference alive long after everyone’s t-shirts are dry from the Ice Bucket Challenge. Put your suggestions in the comments!

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